The Springboks could plant a dagger into the All Blacks' 2019 World Cup aspirations with victory in Pretoria this weekend, former England first-five and commentator Stuart Barnes says.
After the Springboks defied the odds to record a 36-34 win over the All Blacks in Wellington last month, Steve Hansen's side arrived in South Africa this morning, looking for redemption against their rivals.
Writing for Sky Sports UK though, Barnes says that another Springboks win will prove that the All Blacks are not the juggernauts that many in world rugby perceive them to be, despite having wrapped up the Rugby Championship for another year.
The All Blacks failed to overcome South Africa, losing 36-34. (Source: Other)
"The world champions might already have reclaimed the title but after Wellington's loss, don't think there will be anything 'friendly' about the game," Barnes says.
"A second win for South Africa would suggest a vulnerability which Steve Hansen would rather not have his team project.
"Aura is an important, if invisible, part of the winning package.
Rassie Erasmus said maybe in a Rugby World Cup the All Blacks would have thought about a drop goal. (Source: Other)
"Defeat would be a massive psychological boost for one side and a major slip on the part of the other. This game will be played as if the World Cup final."
The All Blacks face South Africa in Pretoria on Sunday morning NZT.
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